BEST JAZZ RADIO PROGRAM (2003)

Seasoned music critic and ubiquitous scene-maker Tom Surowicz won this category last year for his encyclopedic musical knowledge, colorful in-studio guest list, and imaginative programming. This last is sometimes theme-driven, sometimes anchored to a musician or musical instrument, and always serendipitously orchestrated, like the genre's memorable moments. It bears repeating that this host's definition of "jazz" is as broad-based as it is tasteful, as surprising as it is swinging. Thanks to Surowicz's oceanic record collection, listeners can expect to hear everything from Louis Armstrong to King Curtis to Wayne Shorter in any one program (8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Mondays). Over the past 12 months, though, we have become especially appreciative of Surowicz's cozy on-air demeanor. Too many noncommercial hosts are so enamored of their own voice (and their mastery of musical minutiae) that they forget listeners have tuned in to hear a mix of music, not a meaningless listing of musicians or stories from "back in the day." The smart Surowicz drops knowledge when need be, but remains laid back--a cool companion to help ease in the workweek.